Becoming Dutch by option

What is it?

There are 2 ways to obtain Dutch citizenship:

  • Naturalization
  • Option

Option is the easiest and fastest way to become a Dutchman.

  • You do not have to renounce your own nationality with option. However, you should inquire with the authorities of your country whether a second nationality is allowed. If the legislation of your country of origin does not allow this, you will still lose your original nationality. Please note that there is one exception: you do have to renounce your nationality if you belong to the option category "you are of age and have been living in the Netherlands with a valid residence permit since reaching the age of 4 years".
  • You do not have to prove that you are sufficiently integrated in the Netherlands. Therefore, the option procedure does not examine your knowledge of the Dutch language.
  • The cost is lower than naturalization.

Check first with Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) which Requirements you must meet.

If you meet the Requirements for "becoming a Dutch citizen by option," make a telephone appointment (040) 2631 631 to submit an application.

If you meet the Requirements for "Dutchman by naturalization," please refer to Becoming Dutchman by Naturalization.

What to do?

  • You make an appointment by phone at (040) 2631 631 and make a declaration that you want to become a Dutch citizen by option.
  • You pay the fee immediately or within 6 weeks after you make the statement.
  • You fill out a form saying you want to make the declaration of commitment. Children under 16 do not have to do this.
  • You will be notified by the municipality whether you become a Dutch citizen.

Bring to your appointment

  • your residence permit
  • your valid passport or other travel document
  • your birth certificate
  • Other documents about your personal situation, such as marriage certificate, acknowledgment certificate, divorce certificate

The municipality must be able to see that foreign documents are genuine. This can be done by legalizing the documents. You can ask the municipality if this is necessary.

Foreign documents must be in Dutch, English, French or German. Is this not the case? Then you must first have the documents translated by a translator who is sworn in the Netherlands.

What does it cost?

  • Single option request €231.00
  • Multiple option request € 395.00
  • Option request of minor child involved in the application €26.00